state boundary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "state boundary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the dividing line or limit between different states or regions, often in a geographical or political context. Example: "The state boundary between California and Nevada is marked by the Sierra Nevada mountain range."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Because he had taken his victim across a state boundary, he was tried in federal court.

The New Yorker

He remembers the day he discovered the stone state boundary marker in his backyard flower bed.

The New York Times

A third major river, the Son, runs along much of the northwestern state boundary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ever wondered why US planning, from the scale of the city block to the rigid state boundary, is so square?

The Guardian - Arts

According to Maine, the state boundary is in the middle of the channel, placing the shipyard on the Maine side.

The New York Times

The shipyard, a federal installation, sits on islands in the Piscataqua River, which flows into Portsmouth Harbor and forms the state boundary between Portsmouth, N.H., and Kittery, Me.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Caste politics do not fracture state boundaries.

The Economist

"It doesn't stop at state boundaries.

The Guardian

The Iraqi constitution has to draw state boundaries.

The New York Times

But these Maoists and Maoist Gonds don't pay much attention to things like state boundaries.

The Guardian - Books

By next month, the Supreme Court is expected to rule that state boundaries be redrawn.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or official matters, use "state boundary" to maintain a formal tone. In less formal contexts, consider using "state line" or "state border".

Common error

Avoid using "state boundary" interchangeably with terms like "county line" or "city limits". "State boundary" specifically refers to the border between two states.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state boundary" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the dividing line or border between two states. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "state boundary" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote the dividing line between states. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Its function is descriptive, often found in neutral to formal contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. Alternatives include "state line" and "state border". While versatile, it's important to distinguish its specific meaning from similar terms like "county line".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

state border

Synonymous replacement, emphasizing the line that separates two states.

state line

Common and simple alternative, referring to the boundary as a line.

boundary between states

A more descriptive version of "state boundary".

interstate border

Highlights the border's function as a connection between states.

dividing line between states

Emphasizes the separation aspect of the boundary.

political border

Focuses on the administrative/political function of the boundary.

border demarcation

Focuses on the act of establishing or marking the boundary.

jurisdictional border

Emphasizes the legal and jurisdictional aspect of the boundary.

demarcation line

A slightly more formal term for a boundary line.

geographical division

Highlights the physical aspect of the line between the states

FAQs

What is another way to say "state boundary"?

Alternatives include "state line", "state border", or "boundary between states", depending on the context.

How does a "state boundary" affect legal jurisdiction?

Crossing a "state boundary" can change which laws apply, as different states have different legal codes. Some actions become federal offenses if they cross a "state boundary".

What is the difference between "state boundary" and "state borders"?

"State boundary" typically refers to the specific line or zone that divides two states, while "state borders" is a more general term encompassing the area around that line.

Can a river serve as a "state boundary"?

Yes, many "state boundaries" are defined by rivers. For instance, the Mississippi River forms part of several "state boundaries" in the United States.